FACIAL BLUSHING TREATMENTS: NOT WHAT YOU THINK THEY ARE
With an increasing number of people turning to cosmetic tattooing as a means for permanent make-up application, one might be inclined to believe that facial blushing treatments fall into the same category. However, this could not be further from the truth. These treatments, while usually cosmetic, are used to reduce amounts of blushing on the face, not increase it.
WHAT IS FACIAL BLUSHING AND WHAT ARE ITS CAUSES?
Since facial blushing treatments correlate so directly with the nature of the condition, understanding what facial blushing is can help to identify viable treatment options. Like many skin disorders, facial blushing is often embarrassing and painful for its sufferers.
Showing similar symptoms as those associated with rosacea, another common skin irritation; blushing often begins as dark, red patches on a sufferer’s chest, neck and face. Sweating, combined with burning sensations (Hyperpyrexia) frequently accompany reddening and in severe cases, rash-like reddening can migrate as far as the legs.
Unlike rosacea, blushing is not thought to be caused by skin irritations or sun damage. Instead, excessive blushing is linked specifically to psychological responses in those prone to anxiety. While many stimuli may be responsible for sudden onset, blushing is most often triggered when an individual experiences emotional duress. Embarrassment or anxiousness during public or private engagements can leave victims overwhelmed as blushing, sweating, and tingling set in.
WHAT CAN BE DONE ABOUT FACIAL BLUSHING?
As severe blushing provokes unwanted outcome in a sufferer, sometimes even debilitation; finding an effective treatment not only alleviates symptoms and helps prevent future occurrences, it can improve overall quality of life. Knowing that this condition is caused by psychological dysfunction makes determining treatment options easier. Common therapies include:
PSYCHOTHERAPY
Because blushing is triggered by psychological feelings of inadequacy and fear, most patients who suffer from the condition should first consult with a professional psychologist. In most cases, individual diagnosis and treatment consists of several counseling sessions revolving around improving mental health and coping techniques. By limiting negative emotions during social events, reddening should occur less frequently and side effects such as sweating and pain are likely to eventually dissipate.
MEDICATION
Anti-anxiety medications along with beta blockers are often prescribed to patients who have severe blushing episodes. While best used in combination with psychotherapy, medications such as Xanax and Propanol can help alleviate anxiousness and inflammation, but will not eliminate root psychological responses.
SURGERY
As a last ditch effort in a battle against debilitating blushing, some individuals may opt for surgical procedure. Although rare, in cases where nothing else works, an operation may be performed on a sufferer’s sympathetic nervous system. In this situation, Endoscopic thoracic sympathectomy (ETS) is used to severe nerves that lead to excessive sweating in hopes of diminishing visible effects of blushing.
COPING WITH FACIAL BLUSHING
For most people, being introduced to someone new or attending social events can be a little disconcerting. For others who struggle with overwhelming feelings of nervousness and fear during these encounters, life can become unmanageable. It is not uncommon that individuals with sever facial blushing may become withdrawn, depressed, and unable to function well in society. With this in mind, if you or someone you know suffers from this condition, it is important to seek help from a trained professional.
Getting advice on how to treat and cope with facial blushing is the first step towards a healthier and happier life. You can start by talking with your doctor and find out his or her recommendations for your particular situation. Once you have been diagnosed and have begun treatment, don’t be embarrassed to speak with others who can support you through the recovery process. Having friends and family by your side can better your chances of beating blush by giving you the confidence you need.